Panel: WRESTLING WITH WHITE HABITS. RACE AND RELIGION IN WESTERN NORMS.



402.1 - THE WEIGHT OF GUILT. NAVIGATING WHITE RESPONSES TO ANTI-RACIST EDUCATION (WITHIN PARISHES).

AUTHORS:
Kalian J. (University of Vienna ~ Vienna ~ Austria)
Text:
This presentation delves into the complex role of white guilt in the context of racism, exploring its significance, the attitudes it fosters, and the resistance it can provoke. White guilt, often emerging in anti-racist educational efforts, can serve as both a barrier and a catalyst for meaningful change. Beyond its psychological and sociological dimensions, guilt is also a deeply theological category, granting it particular relevance in parish contexts. Through a critical examination, this talk will address how communities might navigate guilt constructively, transforming it into a force for accountability and growth rather than defensiveness and stagnation. Drawing on examples from a parish-based project, the presentation will highlight moments where the question of guilt surfaced explicitly and discuss strategies to engage with these challenges in faith-based settings. By focusing on both practical and theological responses, the talk aims to equip participants with tools to foster a deeper sense of awareness and knowledge about applicable anti-racist practices for their own contexts.